High-performance replacement fire doorsets introduced by Dorplan under new brand SignetFire

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsFire Doors

SignetFire fire doorsets to enhance building safety

Dorplan has announced the launch of SignetFire, a new brand dedicated to high-performance replacement fire doorsets.

As reported by Dorplan, SignetFire aims to meet and exceed industry standards by providing optimal fire safety combined with exceptional functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 exposed critical flaws in fire safety, prompting significant reforms.

The Building Safety Act, a response to this tragedy, mandates robust fire door regulations to enhance building safety.

SignetFire addresses these requirements, ensuring compliance and preventing the spread of fire.

Features and benefits of SignetFire

Quentin Evershed, SignetFire Sales Manager, highlighted the importance of these new doorsets in light of current regulations: “With the Building Safety Act high on the agenda, replacement fire doorsets for non-compliant buildings is a high priority.

“We’ve listened to the industry’s concerns about inconsistent quote turnaround, inconsistent lead times, lack of technical expertise, and insufficient project management support.

“SignetFire addresses these challenges with fast quote turnaround, a reliable 4-week lead time, and in-house exceptional technical and project management support.”

SignetFire aims to support clients with fast and reliable service.

Evershed added: “Our new line of high-performance fire doorsets is designed not only to meet but exceed the rigorous standards set by the industry.

“We are committed to supporting our clients with fast and reliable service, ensuring that every project is completed with the highest level of safety and efficiency.”

Achieving ISO 14001 certification

In addition to launching SignetFire, Dorplan has achieved ISO 14001 certification, marking a step towards sustainability and responsible business practices.

ISO 14001 is an international standard providing a framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving environmental management systems.

For Dorplan, achieving this certification involves aspects such as material sourcing, manufacturing processes, waste management, and energy consumption.

The certification demonstrates Dorplan’s commitment to reducing their environmental footprint and improving their environmental performance.

The process of obtaining ISO 14001 certification

Dorplan followed a structured approach to achieve ISO 14001 certification.

This included conducting an initial environmental review, setting environmental objectives and targets, developing an Environmental Management System (EMS), implementing and monitoring the EMS, undergoing a certification audit, and committing to continuous improvement.

Achieving ISO 14001 certification reflects Dorplan’s dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

By following this structured approach, Dorplan contributes positively to the environment and society.

IFSJ comment

The launch of SignetFire by Dorplan addresses a crucial need in the construction industry for high-performance fire doorsets.

This initiative is particularly relevant in the context of the Building Safety Act, which seeks to prevent tragedies similar to the Grenfell Tower fire by enforcing stricter safety measures.

The emphasis on fast quote turnaround, reliable lead times, and robust project management support highlights Dorplan’s commitment to addressing industry concerns effectively.

Additionally, Dorplan’s achievement of ISO 14001 certification underscores their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

This certification process, which involves a thorough review and continuous improvement of environmental practices, positions Dorplan as a responsible player in the industry.

Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing contractors optimistic about growth prospects, says BESA report

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured News

BESA reports positive outlook for MEP sector

Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) contractors are increasingly optimistic about their future growth prospects, according to a new report from the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA).

The Association’s latest annual Top 30 Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) Contractor report, produced in partnership with construction consultancy GHCS/GH Engage, found that the sector’s largest companies are in good spirits despite experiencing severe difficulties over the past few years.

Collective turnover is up by 16% compared to last year, and most reported robust growth prospects for the next two to five years.

The report did note recent high-profile insolvencies in the sector, such as Michael J Lonsdale, and ongoing consolidation.

However, it also highlighted a more hopeful outlook among senior managers, with many firms indicating they had “turned a corner”.

Market value and technological advancements

The UK M&E contracting market is worth approximately £20 billion and constitutes around a fifth of the UK construction sector’s GDP.

Interviewees for the BESA report stated that this value is likely to increase as building engineering services become more sophisticated and technology-driven.

Gokhan Hassan, managing director of GHCS/GH Engage, said the report showed that the industry was “heading in the right direction” but warned that financial challenges would persist for the next two to three years.

BESA’s chief executive officer David Frise agreed that market conditions remain “tough” and that profitability is still “relatively low.” He praised many of the sector’s larger firms for refocusing their businesses on high-value, fast-growing sectors such as data centres, research, and healthcare, and for “avoiding low bidding as much as possible.”

Net zero targets and risk perception

The report indicated that growing pressure on clients to meet net zero targets and increased investment in refurbishment and retrofit of existing buildings are contributing to improving market conditions.

However, investors remain cautious towards construction-related businesses.

Frise said: “The sector is seen as ‘risky’ and cash poor by the money markets and shifting that perception will take some time.

“However, our report and interviews with leading contractors demonstrate that most large MEP firms have a strong foundation for progress and are focused on reducing their exposure to risk, which should play well with insurers.”

BESA also noted that project bank accounts would play a larger role in industry financing over the next few years as more clients recognise their potential to insulate from risk while ensuring better cash flows through supply chains.

Recovery and future growth

Abdul Tantouch, head of content at AMA Research, highlighted the M&E contracting market’s “significant resilience” after rebounding from a 12% decline in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Tantouch added: “The sector has not only recovered to pre-pandemic levels but is now on a trajectory of robust growth.

This is being driven by the integration of innovative practices and technologies aimed at advancing towards net zero carbon emissions.”

Tantouch said the market is expected to achieve a value of almost £21 billion next year, supported by key trends such as increased demand for data centres and green energy solutions.

The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) legislation is also expected to fuel further growth as commercial building owners and managers look to avoid unlettable ‘stranded assets’.

Challenges in productivity and skills

Despite the positive outlook, the industry faces significant challenges in productivity and skills, according to BESA.

Increasing digital skills within the workforce and improving diversity are essential for sustained growth.

Frise said: “The financial stability of our largest firms is important because it feeds down through supply chains and has a direct impact on the profitability of thousands of smaller, specialist contractors.

“It is, therefore, heartening to see our top 30 in a better place following the extraordinarily challenging conditions created by the unprecedented combination of the pandemic, Brexit, and the war in Ukraine.”

IFSJ Comment

The latest report from the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) provides a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of the MEP sector.

Despite the challenges faced over the past few years, including high-profile insolvencies and ongoing financial headwinds, the sector shows resilience and optimism.

The report highlights a significant increase in collective turnover and a positive outlook for future growth, driven by advancements in building engineering services and a focus on high-value sectors.

However, the report also underscores persistent challenges, particularly around financial stability and investor perception of the sector as ‘risky’ and cash poor.

Addressing these issues will be crucial for sustained growth.

The emphasis on digital skills and diversity within the workforce is also a key takeaway, pointing to the need for continued investment in these areas.

Electric vehicles and lithium-ion battery fire safety feature at the HRB conference

by Building ManagementEventsFeatured NewsSafety

Electric vehicle and lithium-ion battery fire safety at 8th International Tall Building HRB Conference

The 8th International Tall Building HRB Conference (UK) will be held from 2nd to 4th December 2024 in London, coinciding with Anticipate London at the Excel exhibition centre.

Speakers from around the world will share insights into current best practices and innovations in tall building fire safety.

The three-day conference will focus on challenges including electric vehicles and lithium-ion battery fire safety.

Other topics submitted by members of the Tall Building Fire Safety Network include façade fire safety testing, ‘Golden thread’ and safety case development, latest fire research, and insurance issues.

Each day will also feature a topical debate.

On day one, there will be a debate on ‘How do we get the best from the ‘Golden Thread’?’ followed by day two’s debate on ‘Electric vehicles and lithium-ion batteries’.

The final day will feature a debate on ‘How do we make HRB facades fire safe?’.

Conference Director Russ Timpson of the Tall Building Fire Safety Network said: “There has been another spate of tall building façade fires recently (Valencia, China, Istanbul) and people are questioning the status quo regarding long-standing aspects of tall building fire safety.

The 8th International Tall Building HRB Conference (UK) seeks to address these questions and find solutions for all those who reside in higher-risk buildings.”

Insights from international fire safety experts

Several international fire safety membership organisations are sending delegates to the conference, providing a basis for analysing contrasting approaches and policies.

High-profile VIP speakers, including Ben Levy, High Rise Lead for the National Fire Chiefs Council, will deliver keynote addresses and provide insights into global efforts on issues such as façade testing, tall timber, evacuation of people with mobility impairments, fire risk assessment, and firefighting.

Previous conferences attracted delegates from architecture, insurance, building control, construction, fire product manufacturers, and firefighters.

The event offers an opportunity to meet and network with peers and colleagues worldwide.

The programme also includes time to visit the FIREX exhibition to see the latest offerings from various suppliers and consultants.

IFSJ Comment

The 8th International Tall Building HRB Conference will provide a platform for addressing various fire safety challenges faced by tall buildings.

The focus on electric vehicles and lithium-ion battery fire safety highlights the evolving nature of fire risks as technology advances.

The inclusion of debates on key topics such as the ‘Golden Thread’ and façade fire safety ensures a comprehensive discussion on current issues.

The presence of international experts and delegates will facilitate the sharing of diverse perspectives and best practices, contributing to the global effort to enhance tall building fire safety.

The event also provides valuable networking opportunities and access to the latest innovations and products in the fire safety industry.

Success at the 8th International Tall Building and High Rise Fire Safety Conference

by Building ManagementEventsFeatured News

International conference on tall building fire safety declares success

The 8th International Tall Building/High Rise Fire Safety Conference, held alongside FDIC International in Indianapolis, has been celebrated as a tremendous success.

As reported by the Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network, the event saw positive feedback from both delegates and speakers, with strong support for its repetition in 2025.

Delegates from more than fourteen countries participated, bringing diverse perspectives on the fire safety challenges faced by the high-rise community worldwide.

Notable contributions and topics

The conference boasted an array of thought leaders from North America including Jerry Tracy, Jack Murphy, Brent Brooks, Jimmy Davis, Peter McBride, Anthony Castro, and Frank Leeb.

A variety of topics were discussed aimed at broadening the debate and enhancing a holistic approach to fire safety in high-rise structures.

Among the topics presented were the Fire Safety of Green Walls, Academic Fire Research, Firefighter Safety, and Smoke Control.

Partnerships and future plans

The partnership with FDIC International has been instrumental in bringing this esteemed conference to the US.

Eric Schlett, Executive Vice President of Clarion Events Fire Rescue Group, commented: “We are thrilled to partner with the Tall Buildings Fire and Safety Network to bring their highly regarded conference to the United States.

“Their purpose synergistically aligns with FDIC’s core mission of training as we continue to bring key players to the forefront for the betterment of those who serve, save, and protect.”

Looking ahead, the 9th conference is scheduled for 7-9th April 2025 in Indianapolis, with calls already out for papers, presentations, sponsors, and supporters.

Russ Timpson, International Tall Building/High Rise Conference Director, expressed his satisfaction with the conference outcomes: “Really delighted with the positive feedback we have received from the ‘pilot’ first conference at FDIC.

“This gives us a good basis to plan for the 9th Tall Building High Rise Fire Safety Conference in the US in 2025.

“Mark your diaries and budgets for 7-9th April 2025 in Indianapolis, US.”

IFSJ Comment

The 8th International Tall Building/High Rise Fire Safety Conference showcased a significant gathering of global experts and leaders in fire safety, reflecting on various innovative fire safety measures and strategies for high-rise buildings.

The conference facilitated a platform for sharing extensive knowledge and recent advancements and reinforced the ongoing commitment to enhancing fire safety standards globally.

The continuation of this conference in 2025 underscores the persistent efforts and dedication towards advancing fire safety in high-rise environments.

Hong Kong reviews building management ordinance to enhance fire safety

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsSafety

Legislative council revisits renovation regulations

As reported by RTHK, Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Alice Mak, announced on Saturday that the Legislative Council is actively reviewing the Building Management Ordinance.

This review aims to encourage tenants, particularly of older buildings, to undertake necessary renovation work to meet safety standards.

This initiative follows a tragic incident last month where five individuals lost their lives in a fire, in a building that lacked adequate fire safety equipment.

Mak highlighted the challenges in rallying tenants for general meetings and resolving disputes over renovation costs.

She stressed the importance of these renovations in ensuring the buildings’ compliance with safety and fire safety regulations.

Government outreach and proposed amendments

The government is particularly focusing on ageing buildings in districts such as Yau Tsim Mong, Sham Shui Po, and Kowloon City.

“The Home Affairs Department has been actively assisting and helping the owners of the corporation to reach consensus among their tenants to carry out necessary repairs to maintain their building, to make sure that they will observe all the building’s safety and fire safety requirements,” Mak said.

Further, Mak revealed that the proposed amendments to the Building Management Ordinance include a new provision.

This provision would require at least five percent of owners, or 100 owners, whichever is lesser, to vote in person on decisions regarding large-scale maintenance works.

This amendment aims to facilitate better decision-making processes and ensure the execution of essential maintenance.

Challenges in building management and safety enhancements

Mak also acknowledged the difficulties some buildings face in gathering tenants for a general meeting, which is crucial for agreeing on renovation undertakings.

The disagreements over renovation charges pose another hurdle in the timely execution of necessary safety improvements.

The city’s effort to aid these old buildings is crucial as many of them do not meet current safety standards, posing significant risks to residents.

The government’s proactive approach aims to mitigate these risks by ensuring buildings are well-maintained and safe for occupants.

IFSJ comment

The review and proposed amendments to the Building Management Ordinance by the Hong Kong Legislative Council are timely interventions in the wake of recent fire-related tragedies.

By facilitating easier decision-making for building maintenance and enforcing renovation requirements, the government is taking a decisive step towards enhancing urban safety.

These measures are expected to significantly improve the structural and fire safety standards of ageing buildings, thereby protecting the residents and upholding public safety standards.

Scotland secures powers to introduce new building safety levy

by Building ManagementConstructionSafety

Scotland announces plans for a new building safety levy to address cladding issues

As reported by the Scottish government, the UK Parliament has passed legislation allowing Scotland to impose a new tax specifically aimed at addressing building safety concerns.

This initiative follows similar measures already adopted in England through the Building Safety Act.

The Scottish Building Safety Levy will target the construction of new residential buildings.

The funds collected will be dedicated to the Scottish Government’s cladding remediation programme, aiming to tackle the ongoing issues with unsafe building materials.

Statements from government officials

Deputy First Minister and Finance Secretary Shona Robison emphasized the need for further action despite the progress made by developers.

Robison said: “We are determined to safeguard people living in buildings with unsafe cladding.

“I know that developers share this determination and have made significant progress to date.”

She added that the new levy would ensure developers contribute fairly to remediation efforts in Scotland, mirroring the UK Government’s expectations for England.

“It is clear more needs to be done and these powers will ensure that developers make a fair contribution to address building safety defects in Scotland, just as the UK Government is asking them to do in England.

“I welcome the UK Government’s collaborative approach on this issue,” Robison stated.

Future steps and public consultation

The Scottish Government plans to consult with the housebuilding sector to ensure the levy aligns with their ongoing New Deal for Business and Framework for Tax.

This collaboration aims to fine-tune the levy to effectively contribute to public safety without stifling economic growth.

The government’s consultation will also seek input on potential economic distortions or arbitrage opportunities that the new tax might create within the UK, ensuring a balanced approach to this new fiscal measure.

Government commits to enhancing fire safety in Hong Kong’s old buildings

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsSafety

Urgent need for enhanced fire safety in Hong Kong’s older structures

In response to concerns raised in the Legislative Council on April 24, 2024, regarding fire safety in Hong Kong’s ageing urban buildings, the Government has detailed its ongoing and future measures to improve safety standards.

The query, posed by the Hon Lee Chun-keung, highlighted the recent No. 3 alarm fire in Yau Ma Tei which resulted in multiple casualties.

This incident has intensified scrutiny on the so-called “three-nil buildings” which lack owner corporations, resident organisations, and property management, raising questions about their fire safety management.

Comprehensive inspections and enforcement actions

In the past five years, the Fire Services Department (FSD) and the Buildings Department (BD) have conducted extensive inspections across various districts.

Since the enactment of the Fire Safety (Buildings) Ordinance (Cap.

572), the departments have issued numerous Fire Safety Directions to enforce compliance with modern fire safety standards in buildings constructed before March 1987.

By the end of February 2024, approximately 10,920 buildings had been inspected, with over 360,000 directives issued, of which around 40% have been fully complied with.

Strategic amendments and technological advancements

The government is accelerating efforts to amend the ordinance to empower the FSD and BD to undertake fire safety improvements unilaterally for non-compliant buildings and to recover costs post-completion.

This proactive approach aims to enhance compliance and safety standards without compromising the integrity of private property maintenance.

Additionally, technology plays a crucial role in this strategy, with new systems being introduced to facilitate compliance, especially in buildings facing structural challenges.

IFSJ Comment

The Hong Kong Government’s multifaceted strategy to enhance fire safety in older buildings is a testament to its commitment to public safety.

By integrating legislative amendments, stringent enforcement, and technological aid, the authorities aim to mitigate fire risks effectively.

This comprehensive approach is crucial for improving the living conditions of residents and ensuring the structural integrity of Hong Kong’s older buildings.

Build UK updates Building Safety Regime guide to cover latest phase

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured News

Building Safety Act: A new framework for enhanced safety in construction

Build UK has recently updated its Building Safety Regime guide, which now includes comprehensive details from the latest phase of the regime, effective from 6 April 2024.

The updated guide introduces new registers for Building Control Approvers and Building Inspectors and revises Approved Document B, which now includes guidance on second staircases for new residential buildings over 18 metres tall.

Moreover, Build UK has developed a summary of the Golden Thread for members, focusing on the mandatory collection and storage of information for Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs).

A timeline within the guide outlines when each significant update will come into effect.

Industry responses to the new safety regime

Following the release of the fourth report by the Industry Safety Steering Group, Dame Judith Hackitt, the group’s chair, shared her reflections through a blog post.

She acknowledged the “huge progress” made so far and encouraged continued collaboration within the industry to ensure the success of the new regime.

Additionally, it has been reported that the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report will be delayed, with its publication now scheduled for after the upcoming June anniversary of the fire.

Impact and future expectations

The updates to the Building Safety Regime are intended to provide clearer, more stringent guidelines for construction safety, particularly in the context of high-rise buildings.

These changes are seen as vital steps towards preventing future incidents and ensuring a safer living environment for residents.

The detailed timeline and the introduction of new roles are expected to streamline compliance and enhance oversight across construction projects.

IFSJ Comment

By incorporating the latest regulatory changes and practical guidance, Build UK aims to set a higher standard of safety in construction, particularly in response to the tragic lessons learnt from the Grenfell Tower fire.

As the industry continues to evolve, such proactive updates are crucial for maintaining trust and safety in residential and commercial buildings.

This commitment to continuous improvement in building safety regulations demonstrates an adaptive and responsive approach to critical safety challenges in the construction sector.

Fire safety compliance in England’s high-rises falls short under new regulations

by Building ManagementConstructionSafety

Recent findings reveal low compliance rates

According to new research from FASTSIGNS UK, fire and rescue services in England have received only a fraction of the required building and external wall plans for high-rise buildings under the updated fire safety regulations.

These findings, based on Freedom of Information requests to 18 fire services, show that only about 30% of building plans and 21% of external wall plans have been submitted since the regulations were updated.

This low compliance comes despite the legal obligation for responsible persons of high-rise residential buildings, with seven or more storeys, to provide local fire and rescue services with essential safety information, as stipulated by the Fire Safety (England) Regulation 2022, effective from 23 January 2023.

The importance of these regulations was underscored by the Grenfell Tower tragedy in July 2017, which led to enhanced legal requirements including the necessity for clear, updated building plans to facilitate safe and effective emergency responses.

Variation in compliance across regions

The research highlights significant disparities in compliance among different fire services across England.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service reported the highest compliance, receiving 88% of both building and external wall plans.

In stark contrast, Nottingham Fire & Rescue Service received only 6% of building plans and a mere 4% of external wall plans.

This suggests a varied landscape of adherence across the region, potentially impacting the effectiveness of fire services during emergencies.

The data for this research was gathered to help fire services prepare more effectively for potential emergencies, ensuring they have the necessary information to navigate high-rise buildings safely.

It also aims to facilitate safer evacuation for residents by providing clear, signposted exit routes.

Comments from industry experts

John Davies, managing director of FASTSIGNS UK, emphasised the critical role of up-to-date safety information in building management: “No matter what the industry, health and safety signage is fundamental in minimising risks and supporting people’s wellbeing, as well as being crucial in the event of an emergency.

“With certified safety and directional signage, both residents and response teams will be able to clearly navigate high-rise buildings when an incident occurs.

“We work closely with our customers around England so that any buildings that fall under this criteria meet these new requirements.”

IFSJ Comment

The recent study revealing the low compliance with fire safety regulations in England’s high-rises raises significant concerns about safety standards and enforcement.

While some regions like Cheshire showcase high levels of adherence, the overall low compliance rate across the country points to a critical need for stronger enforcement and accountability mechanisms.

This issue highlights gaps in the regulatory framework and stresses the need for continuous improvement and oversight to ensure that safety regulations are more than just statutory requirements but actual practices that safeguard lives.

Building Safety Regulator reviews progress and plans for 2024

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsSafety

Building Safety Regulator outlines achievements and future plans

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has issued an update detailing the significant progress made in enhancing safety standards and regulatory practices for buildings in England throughout 2023.

The report reflects on the regulator’s achievements in its first operational year and previews anticipated developments for 2024.

The BSR was established with a focus on high-rise buildings and has extended its influence across various facets of the building industry, aiming to elevate safety and competence among professionals.

Notably, the BSR initiated a new building safety regime centred around resident safety.

In April, it launched an online service for the registration of high-rise residential buildings, marking a key operational milestone.

Key initiatives and regulatory changes

Over the past year, BSR hosted the inaugural Building Safety Legislation (BSL) conference, attracting over 900 delegates from the building environment sector.

The event facilitated discussions on the newly introduced safety regime and future safety standards.

In addition to these efforts, the regulator rolled out the “Making Buildings Safer” campaign and took charge as the building control authority under the Building Safety Act for higher risk building projects (HRBP).

This role includes assessing HRBP applications, ensuring no building work commences without approval.

By October, registration for high-rise buildings became compulsory, a significant step in the BSR’s enforcement strategy.

Strengthening the regulatory framework

That latest update stated: “Our future plans what we are doing in 2024. Looking ahead to 2020 for a transformative phase awaits the built environment industry.

“Our evidence based guidance updates and insights will support stakeholders in complying with their legal requirements and will also foster a much needed cultural shift.”

In 2024, the BSR aims to introduce updated evidence-based guidance to support compliance with legal requirements, promoting a cultural transformation within the industry.

This includes mandatory registration for building control inspectors and approvers, and the introduction of operational standards enforceable from April.

IFSJ Comment

The Building Safety Regulator’s update on its first year of operations offers an insightful reflection on the strides made towards safer building practices in England.

The commitment to improving safety standards and regulatory mechanisms is evident in the detailed achievements and proactive plans set for the coming years.

As the BSR continues to implement its strategic plan, the focus on education, regulation, and enforcement is crucial for fostering a safer built environment for all residents.